Paris Jackson, Prince Jackson, and other Jackson family members react to the death of patriarch Joe (updated)

Jackson family patriarch Joe Jackson died Wednesday at the age of 89. The co-executors of Michael Jackson’s estate, John Branca and John McClain, confirmed his death, reportedly from pancreatic cancer, in a statement in which they offered “heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Katherine Jackson and the family.”

The family is slowly starting to speak out about the man, nicknamed “The Hawk,” who ushered the Jackson 5 to superstardom and championed the solo careers of icons Michael and Janet Jackson. However, Joe Jackson leaves a complicated legacy due to his heavy-handed tactics — with his children and others he did business with along the way. Michael Jackson, who died in 2009, accused his father of physical abuse while Joe Jackson was managing the careers of him and his siblings (Joe Jackson had 11 children), but also said he believed that the methods were instrumental to his success.

Joe Jackson and his daughter La Toya Jackson pose in Las Vegas on June 9, 2011. She is one of the family members sharing an online tribute to the controversial talent manager. (Photo: Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty Images)

Michael’s children were some of the first to publicly pay tribute to their late grandfather. Paris Jackson posted a touching message that recalled their final moments together — as well as a photo of them holding hands while he was in his hospital bed.

Prince Jackson, Michael’s elder son, said his grandpa “always will be an example of sheer willpower and dedication.” He said Joe taught him “to take pride in the Jackson name and what it really means.” He ended by writing, “Fly free and until we meet again The Hawk.”

Joe’s daughter La Toya is the only one of his children to share an online tribute so far. She wrote that her dad “made us one of the most famous families in the world” and she was “extremely appreciative of that.”

I will always love you! You gave us strength, you made us one of the most famous families in the world. I am extremely appreciative of that, I will never forget our moments together and how you told me how much you cared. #RIP Joe Jacksonhttps://t.co/F5UfYjEgYx

Jackon’s grandson and son of Tito Jackson, Taj Jackson, also shared a heartfelt tribute.

He also slammed those making insensitive remarks about Jackson’s death.

Disgusted by some of the comments I’m reading about my grandpa Joe by those who didn’t even know him. Please don’t just regurgitate what you were spoon fed by the press. Joe was loved by our ENTIRE family and our hearts are in pain. Let us grieve without the nastiness.#ripthehawk

Another grandchild, Yashi Brown (Rebbie Jackson’s daughter), was thinking, “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you.”

Besides the fact I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you…☺️you accomplished everything you set out and exceeded the highest expectations. Whenever I think something’s impossible I think of you. #TheHawkpic.twitter.com/yfwPqciEBY